5 easy ways to use less packaging

11

Jan2018

5 easy ways to use less packaging

Packaging is costly and following on from the plastic bag tax, the new ‘Latte Levy’ looks set to push that cost even higher. The purpose of these taxes, to reduce waste materials, is noble and achievable. Unlike some environmental changes, reducing how much packaging you use is fairly simple to do. To help you navigate the new tax on coffee cups and stay ahead of other trends we’ve compiled five easy ways to use less packaging.

Latte Levy

By now you will have heard that the government plans to add 25p to the cost of a takeaway coffee in a new cup charge. In the short term the money will be used to fight back against the mountains of waste created by disposable coffee cups. The mixed materials in coffee cups makes them difficult to recycle and only the most advanced centres can dispose of them responsibly. The government has said money generated from the scheme will go into improving recycling centres. ReGen, based in Newry, boasts one of the most advanced recycling sites in Europe at present, while the UK as a whole lags behind other EU nations in terms of recycling efforts.

The best way to address this is by buying a reusable coffee cup from your favourite coffee shop chain, so expect to see a lot more people using them in 2018. After 10 re-fills your cup may have already paid for itself, making in financially and environmentally the best option.

Loosen up

In supermarkets there are always additional forms of packaging being offered, but do you always need them?

In some stores, you may have to weigh fruits and veg separately, but you should bag them as one. Realistically your tomatoes sharing a small plastic bag with your limes will do them no harm. Also, when presented with loose or packaged goods, choose loose, it’s often cheaper plus you reduce your domestic waste.

Plastic bags

Buying a sturdy plastic bag and reusing it is a great way to save the planet and at least 5p per shop visit. You could also buy some cloth bags, as they last for longer, can be made from recyclable materials and can be washed thoroughly without falling to pieces. Some stores also replace bags that you bring back and reuse completely free of charge, so be sure to check.

No snack packs

You may see your favourite sweet in ‘share’ or ‘fun’ size, but think before you buy. Snack versions are usually around the same price, but they mean more packaging. Shop smart and don’t be fooled into purchasing bitesize products that decorate the tills and shop exits.

Where possible, buy in bulk. There is no need to prepare for a nuclear war, but if once a month you could access a wholesale store you’d be helping the environment. This also has knock on benefits for your carbon footprint in packaging plus travel.

Cloth

How often do you use a disposable cloth to wipe one miniscule stain then bin it?

Kitchen roll is not environmentally friendly, especially after it is used. Usually oil and grease put rolls beyond recycling. Be smart and use cloth towels for short jobs around the home - combined with natural cleaners they are much more durable and cost effective in the long-term.